The M3 medium tank filled a critical gap in the vehicles of the United States armoured force, being a vital stepping stone between the M3 light tank and the M4 Sherman medium tank. So as not to confuse this medium tank with its lighter namesake, the British nicknamed it the M3 Lee after the American civil war Confederate leader. It gave the American tankers a reliable, well-armoured and, most importantly, hard-hitting tank to counter the German panzers in North Africa. The turret carried a 37mm gun and a machine gun mounted in a unique hatch cupola. The main gun in the side sponson was a powerful 75mm, capable of anti-tank fire or high explosive rounds, quickly earning the Lee the respect of German and Italian tank crews. Despite its high profile and inability to traverse the main gun more than a few degrees, it served well in many theatres and in the service of American, British and Soviet forces. Contains one resin and metal medium tank, Bolt Action stat card, vehicle damage markers, full colour waterslide decals, Bolt Action order die.
